According to Statistic Brain, statistics show that only 8 percent of the U.S. population successfully achieves their new year resolutions. Sadly, that's a pretty lame success rate. Whether it's a lack of motivation, a lack of time or loss of interest, the perfect app can help keep us on track to achieve our goals. By making reasonable, achievable New Year's resolutions and getting support from apps to keep you on track, you can do better and feel better in 2013. Most of us start off the new year with that "new year/new you" enthusiasm and nothing deflates it more than if you fail. I found a few apps that can help you stay the course with your resolutions -- and best of all, they're free!
Here are the top four ranked New Year's resolutions and free apps that can help you make them a reality:
Lose Weight: MyNetDiary
As we all know, losing weight involves not only exercise, but behavior change and diet, and this app tracks your calorie and nutrition intake, as well as your exercise. It's easy to use with a bar code scanner for packaged food and search function with a database of more than 420,000 foods. So before you dig in, you can check out the details here! My trainer, Dewayne Riggins, who also trains numerous celebrities and NFL players, says, "You build muscle in the gym, but you lose weight in the kitchen."
Get Organized: Workflowy
Not just for OCD neat freaks anymore! In our chaotically paced lives, organization is becoming a necessity for everyone. If a simple to-do list just won't do, then this is the app for you. Users can create different sections and fill them with tasks, sub-tasks, reminders, ideas, etc. Items are easily collapsible, allowing you to focus on the task at hand, and completed tasks can be archived and never lost.
Spend Less, Save More: Coupon Sherpa
Most of us don't clip coupons, but who doesn't like to get the best deal? This app offers both in-store coupons and exclusive online deals that are searchable by category and store name. Users are able to locate merchants close by for easy comparison shopping in the palm of your hand. I do this while I'm in a store, whether it's Barney's or Target.
Stay in Touch with Family and Friends: Vonage Mobile
Was your resolution to call your family more often? Yeah, me too. If you have family and friends across the globe, this app is your new BFF! Keeping in touch has never been easier, cheaper or more convenient with Vonage Mobile. Users can talk and text, share location and photos for free with other users worldwide. Have family overseas? No problem. Vonage Mobile also offers super low-cost international calling through iTunes and Google Play. This is also a great tool for people who travel a lot.
Think of 2013 is the book of your life and it has 365 days. How you write that book is entirely up to you. Good luck -- I'm pulling for you.
Check your local TV listings for more of Celebrity Designer and Style Expert, Courtney Cachet's gift guides and lifestyle tips. You can catch her frequent appearances nationwide on TV and online, where she dishes out all the latest in all things fab for your home and lifestyle! Keep up with her on www.courtneycachet.com or Facebook and join the conversation!